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Catherine Connolly has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for diversity, the Irish language, and the history of independence.

In her inauguration address, Connolly outlined a leftwing alternative contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.

“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too far out – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she stated, pointing to her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to label, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance environmental measures, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the outgoing president had expanded its influence, turning it into a platform for issues—a practice the new president will likely uphold.

In a venue filled with government figures, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, the president expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, famine, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and cited constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One major group did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, she reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have first place as a working language.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was lost, she commented. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with each phrase.”

A 21-gun salute was sounded as the new president was formally invested.